GRMC requires employees to receive flu shot

Tricia Pedrick, registered nurse at Greater Regional Medical Center (GRMC), right, administers a flu shot to Gary Scott of Mount Ayr in October. There is still time to get your flu shot. To schedule one, contact GRMC at outreach and public health at 641-782-3682.

A new policy at Greater Regional Medical Center requires that all their health care professionals be given the influenza vaccine (flu shot).

This policy became effective in December.

“It’s crucial for us as healthcare providers to get immunized,” said Nancy Anthony, infection control nurse at GRMC. “Most of the patients that come to our hospital are already ill and have low immune systems. We as providers need to be as healthy as possible to protect our patients.”

GRMC had a 99 percent success rate this year under the new policy. Anthony said more than 300 GRMC employees received flu shots.

Anthony said those GRMC employees declining the flu shot — either by choice or because of medical reasons — are required to wear a mask from December through the end of March.

“We have four wearing masks,” Anthony said.

Still time for you

Public health officials recommend you get the flu shot because the influenza virus can be life-threatening. Flu shots can be given to those sixth months of age and older. It takes about two weeks for the vaccine to give 100 percent protection.

To schedule a flu shot, contact GRMC outreach and public health at 641-782-3682.